Backpack with sash-style strap

ABSTRACT

A backpack is disclosed. The backpack may include a storage portion having at least one interior space for storage, the interior space accessible through a zippered opening, and a single sash-style strap attached to the storage portion and configured to support the storage portion when worn by a user. The strap may extend over a user&#39;s shoulder, diagonally across a user&#39;s chest, and around a user&#39;s waist when worn. The backpack may also include at least one exterior pocket attached to a front surface of the strap and positioned to be easily accessible by a user wearing the backpack. The strap may also include at least one clip attached thereto, the clip configured to be securable to an article of the user&#39;s clothing to maintain the strap in place during use.

BACKGROUND Field

This disclosure relates to a backpack, and, in particular, to a backpack that includes a single, sash-style strap.

Description

Various types of backpacks have been developed for carrying items on a user's back. Traditionally, these backpacks include two straps that extend over the user's shoulders and under the user's arms.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a backpack includes a storage portion including at least one interior space for storage, the interior space accessible through a zippered opening, and a single sash-style strap attached to and configured to support the storage portion when worn by a user. The strap may be configured to extend between a top corner of the storage portion and an opposite bottom corner of the storage portion. The strap may also be configured to extend over a user's shoulder, diagonally across a user's chest, and around a user's waist when worn. In some embodiments, the strap is selectively detachable from the storage portion.

In some embodiments, the backpack includes at least one exterior pocket attached to a front surface of the strap. The at least one exterior pocket may be positioned to be easily accessible by a user wearing the backpack. In some embodiments, the at least one pocket is positioned on the strap on a portion overlying the user's chest. The pocket may be configured to open in an inward and upward manner.

In some embodiments, the strap includes at least one clip attached thereto, the clip configured to be securable to an article of the user's clothing to maintain the strap in place during use. The clip may be carabineer and may be positioned on the strap to be attachable to a user's belt loop.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail below.

FIG. 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of a backpack with a single sash-style strap.

FIG. 2 shows a back view of the backpack of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a front view of the strap of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 shows a back view of the strap of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows a front view of a user wearing the backpack of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a user securing the strap with a clip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is directed to certain specific embodiments. The invention(s) disclosed herein, however, can be embodied in a multitude of different ways as defined and covered by the claims. In this description, reference is made to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated with like numerals throughout.

The features, aspects and advantages of the present development will now be described with reference to the drawings of several embodiments that are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. These and other embodiments will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular embodiment(s) herein disclosed.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show front and back views, respectively, of an embodiment of a backpack 100 with a single, sash-style strap 200. The backpack 100 includes a storage portion 300 that is supported by the strap 200 when worn by a user.

In some embodiments, the strap 200 is configured to be worn sash-style, extending generally over a user's shoulder, diagonally down and across a portion of the user's chest and/or stomach, and around the user's side, hip, or waist. As will be described in greater detail below with reference to FIGS. 3 through 5, the strap 200 may be ergonomically shaped so as to provide a comfortable and secure fit that resists slipping and drooping.

In some embodiments, an upper end 203 of the strap 200 is attached to a top corner 303 of the storage portion 300. In some embodiments, the upper end 203 is permanently attached to the storage portion 300. In some embodiments, the upper end 203 is selectively attached the storage portion 300. The upper end 203 may be selectively attached the storage portion 300 with a buckle, latch, tie, snap, button, zipper, or other suitable attachment method. In some embodiments, the attachment between the upper end 203 of the strap 200 and the storage portion 300 may include an adjustable strap there between. The adjustable strap may be configured to allow adjustment so that the backpack 100 can be properly fitted to a user.

In some embodiments, a lower end 205 of the strap 200 is attached to a lower corner 305 of the storage portion 300. In some embodiments, the lower corner 305 to which the lower end 205 of the strap 200 is attached is opposite the upper corner 303 to which the upper end 203 of the strap 200 is attached. In this way, the strap 200 extends diagonally across a user's chest when worn. In some embodiments, the lower end 205 is permanently attached to the storage portion 300. In some embodiments, the lower end 205 is selectively attached the storage portion 300. The lower end 203 may be selectively attached the storage portion 300 with a buckle 275, latch, tie, snap, button, zipper, or other suitable attachment method. In some embodiments, the attachment between the lower end 205 of the strap 200 and the storage portion 300 may include an adjustable strap 272 there between. The adjustable strap 272 may be configured to allow adjustment so that the backpack 100 can be properly fitted to a user.

In some embodiments, the backpack 100 is configured so that strap 200 extends over a user's right shoulder and diagonally across the user's chest to the user's left side. In some embodiments, the backpack 100 is configured so that the strap 200 extends over a user's left shoulder and diagonally across the user's chest to the user's right side. In some embodiments, the backpack 100 is configured so that the strap 200 can be adjusted between these two positions. That is, with the strap 200 in a first configuration, the strap 200 may extend over a user's right shoulder, and, with the strap 200 in a second configuration, the strap 200 may extend over a user's left shoulder. In some embodiments, the strap 200 may be connected to the storage portion 300 in other locations, such as for example, a top center portion or a bottom center portion of the storage portion 300.

In addition to supporting the storage portion 300, the strap 200 may also include one or more storage features. For example, the strap 200 may include one or more pockets 215, one or more pouches 225, and/or one or more lash points 235. Some of these storage features may be positioned on a front surface 201 of the strap 200 so as to be easily accessible by a user wearing the backpack 100.

The pockets 215 may be included on the front surface 201 of the strap 200 and positioned to provide convenient, accessible storage that can easily be reached by a user wearing the backpack 100. In some embodiments, the pockets 215 are attached to the front surface 201. In some embodiments, the pockets 215 are formed within the strap 200 and accessible through the front surface 201.

In some embodiments, one or more of the pockets 215 can be configured to be selectively closeable so as secure items stored within the pockets 215. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the pockets 215 may be configured with flaps 216 that are configured to overlap and cover the openings of the pockets 215. In some embodiments, the flaps 216 may be securely closed with an appropriate closure mechanism. For example, a flap 216 may be securely closed to selectively close a pocket 215 with Velcro, zippers, buttons, snaps, toggles, ties, magnets, or any other suitable closure mechanism, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more of the flaps 216 may include one or more eyelets 217 that allow cords, wires, or other items, for example, earphones, to extend there through. This configuration allows for secure storage of a cellular phone, mp3 player, or other device within a pocket 215, but stills allows earphones to extend from the device and out of the pocket 215 for use. In some embodiments, the flap 216 may be omitted and the pocket 215 can be configured to remain open, or the pocket 215 may be selectively closable with any of the closure mechanisms described above without the flap 216.

In some embodiments, the interiors of one or more of the pockets 215 may be lined with soft material and/or may include a layer of protective foam or cushioning to protect the items that may be stored therein. This provides particular advantages for storage of fragile items, including, for example, cellular phones, mp3 players, tablets, or other electronic items. The interiors of the pockets 215 may include other features that further facilitate storage. For example, an interior of a pocket 215 may include one or more dividers that partition the interior of the pocket into various subpockets. These subpockets may be configured to specifically store common items like pens, pencils, money, etc.

The size of the pockets 215 may be configured to suit the storage of particular items. Accordingly, in some embodiments, each of the pockets 215 may have a different size. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the strap 200 may include three pockets of various sizes. A first pocket 215 a may be configured to hold smaller items, like a cellular phone or mp3 player. A second pocket 215 b may be medium size and may be configured to hold larger items, for example, wallets and/or passports. A third pocket 215 c may be large size and configured for general storage of items. A person of skill in the art will understand that the examples provided here are not limiting and that the sizes of the individual pockets 215 can be adjusted to accommodate a wide variety of items without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, each of the first through third pockets 215 a, 215 b, 215 c may be the same size. In some embodiments, one or more of the pockets 215 a, 215 b, 215 c may be omitted.

The strap 200 may also include one or more pouches 225. For example, in the embodiment pictured in FIG. 1, the strap 200 includes one pouch 225 which is configured as a pocket of material attached to the front surface 201 of the strap 200. The pouch 225 is open on one side. The open side of the pouch 225 may include an elastic band 226 to secure items within the pouch 225.

In some embodiments, the pockets 215 and/or pouches 225 positioned on a portion of the strap 200 extending across a user's chest are configured to open in an inward and upward manner. The pockets 215 and/or pouches 225 positioned near an upper extremity of the strap may be configured to open in an upward manner.

The strap 200 may further include one or more lash points 235. In general, a lash point 235 may be configured as a loop or tie extending from the strap 200. The lash points 235 are configured to allow attachment of various items, for example, carabineers, key rings, or other items, to the strap 200. Lash points 235 may be attached to the front surface 201 of the strap 200 directly or may be attached on top of pockets 215, flaps 216, and/or pouches 225.

In some embodiments, the strap 200 includes a clip 245 that is positioned and configured to secure the strap 200 to a piece of the user's clothing. The clip 245 may thus help to hold the strap 200 in place during use. In some embodiments, the clip 245 may be positioned so as to be located approximately at a user's hip during use. This positioning allows the clip 245 to be attached to user's belt or belt loop as shown in FIG. 5 and discussed below. The clip 245 may be a carabineer, Velcro loop, tie, or other suitable mechanism. Other positions for the clip 245 are also possible.

The strap 200 and pockets 215 can be made from any durable fabric. For example, the strap 200 and pockets 215 can be made from 100% polyester fabric. Polyester fabric provides long lasting durability and resistance to water, abrasions, rips, and scuffs.

The storage portion 300 of the backpack 100 is supported by the strap 200 and is generally worn on a user's back. The storage portion 300 is configured to enclose one or more interior spaces designed for storage of various items. The interior spaces may be accessible through one or more openings that are closable with zippers or other suitable closure mechanisms.

For example, the storage portion 300 may enclose two partitioned interior spaces each accessible through a zippered closure 315, 325. A first interior space may be located within the storage portion 300 adjacent to the back surface 301. In some embodiments, the first interior space is configured as a dedicated compartment for holding a laptop. For example, the first interior space may be shaped and sized to hold a 17-inch laptop and a laptop sleeve. The first interior pocket may be lined with a soft material and/or padded with foam or other cushioning material to protect the laptop stored therein. The first interior pocket may also include Velcro straps or other fasteners to securely hold the laptop in place. A second interior space may be located within the storage portion 300 and adjacent to the first storage space. The second interior space may be configured for general storage, for example, for storage of clothing, books, food, or other items. In some embodiments, the second interior space is further partitioned. In some embodiments, the storage portion 300 includes only a single interior space. In some embodiments, the storage portion 300 includes more than two interior spaces.

The storage portion 300 may include one or more zippered pockets 335. The zippered pockets 335 may be positioned on the exterior of the storage portion 300. In some embodiments, at least one zippered pocket 335 is positioned on the back surface 301 of the storage area 300. In some embodiments, one or more of the zippered pockets 335 may be hidden, for example, by using small zippers hidden within seams, to provide hidden storage. The storage portion 300 may also include one or more large external pockets 345 closable with a zipper 346. One or more mesh pockets 355 may also be included on the storage portion 300. In some embodiments, the mesh pockets 355 are located on the sides of the storage portion 300 and configured to hold water bottles, umbrellas, or other items. In some embodiments, the mesh pockets 355 include elastic bands 356 at their openings to secure items within the mesh pockets 355. The storage portion 300 may also include one or more lash points 365. The lash points 365 on the storage portion 300 are similar to the lash points 235 on the strap 200, discussed above. The storage portion 300 may also include a handle 375 as shown. The storage portion 300 may include a bungee cord on the front surface of the storage portion for securing light clothing or other items.

The storage portion 300 may be made from any suitable and durable fabric. For example, the exterior of the storage portion 300 may be made from 100% polyester fabric. In some embodiments, the interior of the storage portion 300 may be lined with an interior lining to allow the interior of the storage portion to be easily cleaned. In some embodiments, the interior lining is a plastic fabric. The back surface 301 of the storage portion 300 may be configured with padding or foam cushioning to provide a comfortable fit for the backpack 100. In some embodiments, the back surface 301 is further configured with an air mesh structure. A bottom portion 307 of the storage portion 300 may be strengthened so as to support the weight of the items stored in the storage portion 300. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 307 may include a quilted double pain bottom. In some embodiments, the exterior of the storage portion 300 may be water proof or water resistant.

In some embodiments, the storage portion 300 may be configured to include an internal storage capacity of between 20 cubic liters and 40 cubic liters. For example, the storage portion 300 may have an internal capacity of 27 cubic liters, 29 cubic liters or 32 cubic liters. In some embodiments, the storage portion 300 may be configured to securely hold a laptop. For example, the storage portion 300 may be configured to hold a 10-inch, 14-inch, 17-inch, or any other size laptop.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show front and back views respectively of the sash-style strap 200 of FIG. 1. In FIGS. 3 and 4, the strap 200 is shown removed from the storage portion 300 and lying flat. These figures are helpful in illustrating the overall shape and general sections of the strap 200.

In general, the strap 200 may include three main sections: a shoulder section 251, a chest-overlying section 253, and a waist section 255. Each section, as well as the connections between the sections, may be shaped to provide a secure, comfortable and ergonomic fit. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that while reference is made here to various “sections” of the strap 200, these sections merely represent general regions or areas of the strap 200 and need not be discrete and individual parts. For example, while the strap 200 is described as having three sections, it may be formed generally of a single unitary construction.

The shoulder section 251 extends from the top end 203 of the strap 200 and is configured to be positioned over a user's shoulder during use of the backpack 100. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the shoulder section 251 includes padding 252 to cushion the user's shoulder against the weight of the backpack 100. In some embodiments, the shoulder section 251 is substantially straight.

The shoulder section 251 is connected to the chest-overlying section 253. In some embodiments, the connection between the shoulder section 251 and the chest-overlying section may include a shallow angle to allow the strap 200 to transition from extending generally straight over the shoulder to diagonally across the user's chest. In some embodiments, this angle may be between approximately 180 degrees and 120 degrees.

The chest-overlying section 253 may include the various pockets 215 described above on the front surface 201 of the strap 200. In this way, the pockets 215 are positioned for easy access while the backpack 100 is worn. However, it will be noted that the pockets 215 may be positioned on other sections of the strap 200. In some embodiments, the chest-overlying section 253 may include a slightly curved shape configured to allow the chest-overlying section 253 to follow the contours of the user's body when worn. The back surface 202 of the chest-overlying section 253 may be padded or cushioned.

The chest-overlying section 253 is connected to the waist section 255. In some embodiments the connection between the chest-overlying section 252 and the waist section 255 may include an angle to transition from extending generally diagonally across the user's chest to around the user's waist. In some embodiments, this angle may be between approximately 160 degrees and 90 degrees.

The waist section 255 may include the pouch 225 described above. In some embodiments, the waist section 255 may be formed with a slightly curved shape so as to follow the contours of the user's body when worn. The back surface 202 of the waist section 255 may be padded or cushioned. In some embodiments, the clip 245 extends from an edge of the waist section 255.

In some embodiments, the shoulder section 251, chest-overlying section 253, and waist section 255 form a substantially straight band. That is, in some embodiments, there is not angle between each of these sections. The shape of the strap 200 can be configured so that the strap 200 lies generally flat against the user's body along the length of the strap 200. This prevents either edge of the strap 200 from digging into the user during use, evenly distributes the weight supported by the strap 200, and helps to maintain the strap 200 in place.

In some embodiments, the back surface 202 of the strap 200 includes a moisture-wicking air mesh. In some embodiments, the back surface 202 may be coated with a high friction coating, for example, small rubber dots, to maintain the strap 200 in place during use.

FIG. 5 shows a front view of a user wearing the backpack 100 of FIG. 1. As shown, the strap 200 of the backpack 100 extends over the user's shoulder, diagonally across the user's chest, and around the user's waist. The storage portion 300 (not shown in FIG. 5) is thus supported behind the user. Notably, the pockets 215 are positioned in front of the user and provide quick and easy access to the items stored therein.

FIG. 6 illustrates how the strap 200 can be secured to a user's clothing with the clip 245 in some embodiments. As shown, the clip 245 on the strap 200 may be positioned generally over a user's hip during use. The user may then attach the clip 245 to the user's belt loop 401 or belt 403. The clip 245 may thus secure the strap 200 in position. In some embodiments, the clip 245 may be positioned on other portions of the strap 200 so that the clip may be attached to other areas of the user's clothing.

The foregoing description details certain embodiments of a backpack 100 including a strap 200 and a storage portion 300 disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the invention can be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments; one or more parts from a depicted embodiment can be included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and/or depicted in the Figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A backpack, comprising: a storage portion including at least one interior space for storage, the interior space accessible through a zippered opening; and a single sash-style strap attached to the storage portion and configured to support the storage portion when worn by a user.
 2. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the strap is configured to extend between a top corner of the storage portion and an opposite bottom corner of the storage portion.
 3. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the strap is configured to extend over the user's shoulder, diagonally across the user's chest, and around the user's waist when worn.
 4. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the strap includes at least one exterior pocket attached to a front surface of the strap.
 5. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the strap includes at least one clip attached thereto, the clip configured to be securable to an article of the user's clothing to maintain the strap in place during use.
 6. The backpack of claim 5, wherein the clip is a carabineer.
 7. The backpack of claim 5, wherein the article of the user's clothing is a belt loop.
 8. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the strap includes at least one adjustable portion configured to allow the length of the strap to be adjusted.
 9. The backpack of claim 1, wherein at least one end of strap is connected to the storage portion with a buckle.
 10. The backpack of claim 1, wherein a first end of the strap is connected to the storage portion with a first buckle and a second end of the strap is connected to the storage portion with a second buckle.
 11. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the strap is selectively detachable from the storage portion. 